Congress has spent the last seven months addressing the enormous challenges that face us, working to improve the lives of Americans, and ease the impact of this recession. Shortly after taking office, President Obama signed an economic recovery bill that helped pull us back from the brink of a depression. To create jobs and put us on a path to energy independence, the House passed a clean energy bill. Further demonstrating Democrats commitment to fiscal responsibility, the House passed statutory PAYGO legislation, so Congress has to pay for what we buy. In addition to those accomplishments, we made helping American families hurt by the economic downturn a top priority by passing: the Credit Cardholder’s Bill of Rights to protect consumers; housing legislation to help responsible homeowners stay in their homes; health care legislation to ensure low-income children have access to affordable care; and the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act.

House Democratic Leadership holds a press conference
after adjourning for the August district work period.

Over the last few weeks, the House has made considerable progress in our effort to reform our Nation’s health system. This effort will directly benefit every American by removing insurance companies from between you and your doctor. Our bill will cap what they can force you to pay in out of pocket expenses, co-pays, and deductibles, and give you the peace of mind you will be covered for the care you need even if you change or lose your job.

As we head into August, Members will be out in their Districts, talking with constituents about America’s Affordable Health Choices Act and the critical need for health reform. When we return in September, Congress will pass legislation that puts Americans and their doctors back in charge, holds insurance companies accountable, guarantees peace of mind, lowers costs, and provides more choices for higher quality care. We will also focus on other critical issues, including education and regulatory reform.

Sincerely yours,
STENY H. HOYER

P.S. Please invite your friends and family to sign up for this newsletter to learn about what House Democrats are doing to lead America in a new direction.

MAJORITY NEWS UPDATE

Pelosi and Hoyer Statement on Progress of Health Reform Legislation

Speaker Pelosi and Leader Hoyer issued a joint statement this week about progress on the health insurance reform legislation.

Hoyer: GDP Report Shows Promising Signs for Economic Recovery
Today, the Commerce Department reported that the decline in our GDP is tapering off, an indication that our economy is stabilizing after the severe recession that began in 2007.Read release